This Easy Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast is a tasty dinner idea. Juicy chicken is filled with fresh spinach and creamy cheese, making each bite delightful.
I love how simple it is to make! Just stuff, bake, and enjoy a healthy meal that looks fancy. Perfect for impressing friends without too much fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are best as they cook evenly and are easy to stuff. If you’re looking for a different flavor, try using chicken thighs for a juicier option.
Fresh spinach: Fresh spinach adds great flavor and nutrition. If you don’t have fresh, you can use thawed frozen spinach. Just make sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture.
Cheeses: Cream cheese gives creaminess and holds the stuffing together, while mozzarella adds stretch and flavor. You can swap cream cheese for ricotta if you prefer a lighter filling.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for flavor, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch. Just reduce the amount to about 1/4 teaspoon.
How Do I Perfectly Stuff the Chicken Breasts?
Stuffing the chicken can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll be just fine! First, make sure to create a pocket deep enough to hold the filling without breaking through.
- Use a sharp knife and cut slowly along the side for better control.
- Fill the pocket generously, but don’t overstuff. It might spill out while cooking.
- Secure with toothpicks to keep the filling in place if necessary.
Taking these steps can help keep your filling intact and make for a beautiful presentation!
Easy Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes for preparation and around 25-30 minutes for cooking. In total, it takes approximately 40 minutes to have your delicious spinach stuffed chicken ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, go ahead and preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is important to ensure your chicken cooks evenly!
2. Make the Filling:
In a medium bowl, mix together the chopped spinach, softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Stir until everything is well combined and creamy.
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into each chicken breast. Try not to slice all the way through—just enough to create a nice space for the filling.
4. Stuff the Chicken Breasts:
Fill each chicken breast with an equal amount of the spinach and cheese mixture. Don’t be shy—pack it in there! If you need to, use toothpicks to secure the openings and keep the filling from oozing out.
5. Sear the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they’re golden brown.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes. The chicken is done when it’s no longer pink in the center and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
7. Let It Rest:
When the chicken is ready, take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps to keep it juicy! Before serving, make sure to remove any toothpicks.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the stuffed chicken breasts and serve them warm. Enjoy your delicious, easy spinach stuffed chicken breasts!
FAQ for Easy Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! You can use thawed frozen spinach as a substitute. Just make sure to thoroughly drain any excess liquid before mixing it with the cheeses to avoid a soggy filling.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Place any leftover stuffed chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave it for quicker results.
Can I Make the Filling Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the spinach and cheese filling a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to stuff the chicken. This can save you time on a busy weeknight!
What Can I Serve with Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts?
This dish pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or some fluffy rice. You can also serve it with pasta to soak up any delicious filling that may escape!
